Chicken scampi offers a lighter, quicker alternative to the classic shrimp scampi, retaining all the delightful garlicky, buttery, and lemony goodness. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal, impressing friends, or simply enjoying a flavorful and satisfying dinner. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a restaurant-quality chicken scampi at home.
What is Chicken Scampi?
Chicken scampi is a variation on the traditional shrimp scampi. It features tender chicken breast sautéed in a luscious sauce of butter, garlic, white wine (optional), lemon juice, and herbs. The key to a great chicken scampi lies in perfectly cooked chicken and a well-balanced, vibrant sauce.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Chicken: 1-1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
- Garlic: 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- White Wine (optional): ½ cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- Parsley: ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Pasta (optional): Linguine, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Sauté the Chicken: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Deglaze the Pan (optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Bring to a simmer.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
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Serve: Serve the chicken scampi immediately over pasta (if desired) or as is. Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge, if desired.
How Long Does it Take to Make Chicken Scampi?
The entire process, from prep to plate, takes approximately 20-25 minutes, making it a fantastic quick weeknight meal option.
What Kind of Pasta Goes Best with Chicken Scampi?
Linguine, spaghetti, fettuccine, and angel hair pasta all pair wonderfully with chicken scampi. Choose a pasta that will hold the sauce well.
Can I Make Chicken Scampi Ahead of Time?
While it's best served immediately, you can prepare the chicken and sauce components separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat gently before combining and serving. Avoid reheating for extended periods, as it can dry out the chicken.
Variations on Chicken Scampi:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add vegetables: Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the garlic.
- Creamy scampi: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil.
Conclusion:
With its simple yet elegant flavors, chicken scampi is a delightful dish that's easy to master. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious and impressive meal in no time! Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference and enjoy the culinary journey!
